Strings Teachers

We make an effort to match each of our students with the best possible teacher for their musical, personal, and logistical needs. However, if someone stands out to you from the list below, let us know and we'll see what we can do. Contact us to move forward with private lessons on cello, violin, viola, or harp. We can also offer double bass.

Cello

Okorie Johnson is a classically-trained cellist who has performed with such artists as Doria Roberts and India.Arie. He has a passion for guitar-cello duets and a wealth of teaching experience both as a cello instructor and as a teacher of English at the Westminster School. In addition to his work as a musician, Okorie is a screenwriter, actor, husband, and father. He's the bearer of a left-brain education in both music and the classics as well as a right-brained artist's musical sensibility, making him able to work with a variety of different learning styles and musical styles.

Jessica Kornhoff recently completed a master's degree in cello performance from Georgia State University, which she accomplished in addition to a busy performing and teaching schedule and raising two children. Jessica performs frequently as a cellist with local orchestras and small ensembles and has recently begun pursuing acting and puppetry arts. She is a warm, friendly "people person" who builds instant rapport with students of all ages. Jessica is a very encouraging and supportive teacher who is thrilled to work with each new student who comes her way.

Harp

Lyrika Holmes moved to Atlanta recently from Memphis, and Atlanta is the richer for it. Lyrika has a background in classical harp, and she also incorporates the instrument into performances of her own original music - she is a spellbinding perfomer. Lyrika has a master's degree in music education and Orff certification from the University of Memphis and extensive teaching experience in choir, drama, general music, recorder, harp, voice, and piano. She has the experience and dedication to work with young beginners and is a great resource for aspiring professional harpists as well as singers and songwriters.

Violin

Leslie Conner joined the Eclectic Music team in 2010 and quickly made herself indespensible. A Suzuki-trained violinist, Leslie does excellent work with very young students as well as adults and teens. Although Leslie does some performing with chamber ensembles, teaching is her top priority. Her patient, friendly, no-nonsense demeanor wins over students and parents alike, and her students become confident, eager performers.

LaTonya Peoples has been with Eclectic Music since January 2008. She has shared the stage with many great performers, and has an impressive live act herself, using looping technology to extend the capabilities of the solo violin and incorporating her gorgeous singing voice. LaTonya, who is Suzuki trained, is a patient, professional teacher who treats children with respect and provides a highly consistent structure that ensures success. LaTonya has a passion for working with special needs children as a music therapist, has a successful career in the IT industry, and also maintains a home recording studio where she functions as producer and engineer.

Violin/Viola

Chip Epsten, a veteran teacher and performer, is Suzuki trained through Book Four. Chip performs with local orchestras and composes his own music which has been used in film and theater. He is the leader of the string orchestra at Fifth Avenue School in Decatur. Chip enjoys incorporating a variety of musical styles into lessons in order to engage his students and discover their musical tastes. He does his best work with students age six and up.

Daniel Jenkins is working on a teaching certification program at Georgia State University. He is Suzuki trained and has extensive teaching experience both in private lessons. He was also a high school orchestra director in Fayette County for several years and hopes to return to a similar career once he completes his certification. Daniel enjoys working with students of all ages and abilities. He is highly reliable and personable, with a relaxed mien that puts students at ease.

Katheryn Pearsall, a graduate of Michigan State University, is adept on violin and viola. Teaching music is her life's passion and has been from a very young age. She plays everything from classical to jazz to rock to hip-hop, and uses these various styles to help her students develop a love of the strings. Katie is extremely reliable and teaching is her highest priority - this has made her a sought-after teacher even though she has only been in Atlanta for a short time. Katie's compassionate nature and teaching expertise make her able to adapt her approach to the needs of the specific student.